The technology

First up all ,, Its a common idea. Forget it if its a nonsense.

How about adding a "Space research" in technology area ?

The nations with this technology can send their satellites (for different purposes like spying, increase the % of resources income, Military strength) to space to get some bonuses and resources.
Spying -Nations which have spy satellite can view opponents strengths and weakness
Resources -Nations which have this kind of satellite Increased rate in productions of resources
Communication - Nations which have this satellites can easily redeploy the army and various in game communications etc